The Ten Best FREE iPad/iPhone Apps for Kids

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Recently, I posted a short video clip on Twitter showing how my kids effortlessly navigate modern gadgets like they were born with a touchscreen in their hands. It got me thinking about how different things are compared to when I was growing up. Back then, we had clunky devices like my dad's corded car phone, which was bigger than a football, and my trusty pink cassette player. Now, my daughter tries to swipe non-touchscreen phones and ends up handing them back, saying, "This one's broken." Technology sure has come a long way!

As much as I love sharing parenting tips, I also enjoy learning from other parents. One thing I've found incredibly helpful is knowing which apps can keep my kids entertained during those inevitable moments at the grocery store when I need just a few minutes to check out. Grocery store lineups with kids are like a dare to chaos—imagine standing 0.5 inches away from your sibling and telling them they can’t touch anything. Go ahead, try it sometime—I double-dare you.

In return for all the awesome advice I’ve received, I wanted to share something useful with you. Below is a list of our top ten favorite FREE iPad (and iPhone) apps for young kids. These have been absolute lifesavers for us, especially during those "mom needs a breather" moments.

Disney’s Toy Story Read Along App: This app is absolutely adorable and fully interactive. We’ve even recorded our own voices for some of the pages! It lets you read along, watch clips from the movie, color pages, listen to songs, and play games. (Available for iPad)

Talking Tom: This app never fails to crack us up. Tom, the talking cat, mimics everything you say in a funny voice, and you can pet him, poke him, or grab his tail. It’s endlessly entertaining, and you can even record and share your sessions with friends. (Available for iPad)

Virtuoso Piano Free: Both my kids love playing on this app. It’s perfect for solo practice or dueling pianos—it’s so much fun! But be warned, the noise might drive you a little crazy after a while. (Available for iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch)

Doodle Buddy: Think of it as a digital doodle pad with endless possibilities. Choose from tons of cute backgrounds, stamps, and tools like chalk or glitter pens. It’s a hit with both kids and adults alike. (Available for iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch)

Glow Stick: My daughter adores the vibrant colors and patterns, and she’s still amazed by it, even after playing countless times. Simply slide your finger across the screen to "break" the glow stick and shake the device to see it light up. (Available for iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch)

Make Me a Princess (Lite): Perfect for the girly-girls out there, this app allows your child to design a princess from head to toe—hair, clothes, accessories, and more. Hours of creative fun! (Available for iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch)

Toddler Teaser Shapes: This app helps kids learn shapes while earning virtual stickers as rewards. It’s a simple yet effective way to keep young minds engaged. (Available for iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch)

Timmy’s Preschool Adventure (Lite): Follow Timmy on his journey to school, where kids solve puzzles, learn numbers, shapes, and patterns. Collecting stickers along the way adds an extra layer of excitement. (Available for iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch)

Matching Zoo: A delightful matching game filled with colorful animals and fun sound effects. My daughter loves playing—and winning—this one. (Available for iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch)

Bubble Free: Who doesn’t love popping virtual bubbles? Whether it’s Bubble Free or its cousin Bubbles, these apps are perfect for keeping little ones entertained. (Available for iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch)

What are your go-to apps for kids? I’d love to hear your recommendations in the comments! There’s always room for more discoveries.

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And here’s our little walker, loving every step of the way!

Have a fantastic weekend ahead!

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